Your air ducts are like the respiratory system of your home. They distribute air from your air conditioning system to the rest of the house. In doing so, however, they accumulate a lot of dust and debris that won’t go away on its own. Cleaning air ducts has many benefits, but it may not be necessary for every homeowner. Here are 8 benefits of cleaning your air ducts to help you make the best decision for your household.
Benefits of Cleaning Your Air Ducts
Strictly speaking, your air ducts don’t absolutely need to be cleaned. They’re not like air filters or a vent that needs regular cleaning; most of the dust inside stays on the surface of the ducts, so there won’t be catastrophic consequences for not cleaning them. However, it can still have benefits. Safety, efficiency, air quality, and pest control are just some of the benefits you can expect when you get your air ducts cleaned.
1. Odor Reduction
Even if the dust in your air ducts doesn’t make your home visibly dirtier, it can still become unpleasant. Dust carries a musty odor, which, unlike solid debris, will blow into your home. Cleaning your air vents will make the air that comes out of your air vents smell better, which leads to your home smelling better overall.
2. Energy Efficiency
When your air ducts are dirty, they’re less efficient. Buildup can restrict airflow and make your HVAC system work harder. Among other issues, this means that your energy bills will be higher. If you want to save some money on your monthly utilities, you can have your air ducts cleaned in order to increase the efficiency of your ventilation system, and reduce your power bill as a result.
3. Less Noise
Higher energy bills aren’t the only consequence of dirty air ducts. Another one is the amount of noise they can make. The harder your HVAC system has to work, the louder it’s going to be. Even if your ventilation system isn’t making any noticeable sounds, such as banging or popping, cleaning your air ducts can reduce the amount of background noise in your home, which can give you more peace and quiet.
4. Longevity
An HVAC system that doesn’t have to work as hard lasts longer. The harder your ventilation system has to work to keep your home cool and maintain the airflow, the faster it’s going to wear itself out. Cleaning your air ducts and increasing their efficiency can increase the lifespan of your air conditioner and save you some money.
5. Fire Safety
Cleaning your air ducts also has safety benefits. Namely, it eliminates a possible fire hazard. The dust and contaminants in your air ducts are highly flammable, and a spark or very heated surface can cause them to ignite. It’s unlikely, but there’s still a chance, and any fire that starts as the result of a different cause can be worsened by the dust in your air ducts. Cleaning them can make a fire that much less likely and possibly lessen the damage.
6. Prevents Mold
Any enclosed space that’s allowed to accumulate moisture is a prime breeding ground for mold. Your air ducts and HVAC system are no exception, and are particularly susceptible to mold or mildew growth. As a matter of fact, mold can develop in your ductworks in as little as 24 hours after exposure to moisture. This includes the dreaded black mold, which can cause serious health concerns.
Cleaning your air ducts can get rid of harmful mold and other pollutants. If you suspect that your ventilation system has been experiencing mold growth, it can be worth the time and money to get it cleaned. You may even find mold when you weren’t expecting to. Even if there’s none at all, it can still be worth it for the peace of mind.
7. Pest Control
Pests, such as insects or rodents, are an all-too-common sight in residential homes. If you have an infestation and can’t find the source, the ventilation system is a prime candidate. Rats, mice, cockroaches, ants, and more can all make their homes in your air ducts or use them as a pathway to move throughout the house.
If larger pests, such as rats or mice, have infested your air ducts, your first call should be to a pest control expert. However, once the pests are gone, or if it’s a smaller pest such as an insect, cleaning your ducts can remove any deceased pests and the waste they leave behind. Some pests can even damage your electrical wires or parts of your ventilation system, which makes removing them doubly important.
8. Other Problems
Lastly, getting your ducts cleaned can help with any other problems you may have with your ventilation system, even ones you didn’t know you had. If your HVAC system is acting up, a cleaning could be just what it needs to restore it to working order. If nothing else, you may be able to find out what the problem is and possibly how to fix it.
FAQ About Air Ducts
How often should I clean my air ducts?
It depends. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) avoid recommending an arbitrary duct cleaning schedule. Clean your air ducts when necessary. Signs your air ducts need cleaning include visible mold gold growth, a pest infestation, or increased dust around air ducts.
Can I clean my air ducts myself?
You shouldn’t try to clean your own air duct system. The job requires specialized tools that the average Joe isn’t likely to have lying around. If you do it incorrectly, you run the risk of damaging your ductwork, so it’s better to hire a professional.
How can I tell if my air ducts are clogged?
There are a few signs that an air duct is clogged, obstructed, or just plain not working like it should for whatever reason. Here’s a short list of signs you can watch out for:
- One room being hotter or colder than the rest.
- Dirty air coming from the vents.
- Spikes in your electric bills.
- Air comes out of your ducts warm when it should be cold, or vice versa.
- Air is not blowing out of the ducts in one or more rooms.
Find a Pro
Cleaning your air ducts has a myriad of benefits, so even if you don’t think there’s a problem with them, consider getting it done regularly. Doing so can save you money, make your air cleaner, and even safeguard your home from a fire.
If you’re ready to start the duct cleaning process, or if you need other HVAC help, contact your local HVAC professionals. They can service your air ducts or heating/cooling systems so you can focus on other areas of your home.
Note: HVAC Gnome may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
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